Clinical Presentation & Protocol
Patient Usually Complains Of
Presents with profound, acute onset of severe joint pain, swelling, erythema, and warmth. Exquisitely sensitive to even light touch (e.g., bed sheets). Denies recent direct trauma. Endorses systemic malaise/low-grade fever.
Clinical Examination Findings
Patient appears systemically unwell or in immense local distress.
Treatment Protocol
1. Urgent joint aspiration (arthrocentesis) performed for synovial fluid analysis (cell count, Gram stain, crystals, culture). 2. Ordered serum ESR, CRP, WBC, and Uric Acid. 3. Initiated acute flare management (Colchicine/NSAIDs if suspected Gout; broad-spectrum IV antibiotics if suspected Septic Arthritis). 4. Immobilization and elevation. 5. Orthopedic surgical consult for possible urgent arthroscopic washout (I&D).